England vs DR Congo: Time for the Three Lions to Step Up | OneFootball

England face DR Congo this evening in the Round of 32 as the knockout stages of the World Cup begin. Thomas Tuchel’s side came top of Group L whilst their opponents qualified as one of the best 3rd place finishers.

This is where the competition begins. Win, and you’re through. Lose, and it’s a long journey home. The route to the final is set, now it is up to the Three Lions to show up.

Despite getting the victory, an underwhelming display against Panama has led to questions over whether England are good enough to win the World Cup. A second half inspired by Jude Bellingham won all three points, ensuring a top-place finish in the group.

DR Congo found their way through a little differently. Holding Portugal in their first match was followed up with a loss against Colombia and a win over Uzbekistan. A strong and compact side, England will have to work hard to progress into the next round.

Match Preview

Jude Bellingham has been England’s clear standout player so far this tournament, and Tuchel will need him to continue his form. This game is shaping up for someone else to stand up and be counted.

DR Congo will set up to defend deep and aim to catch England on the break. Width and a faster tempo will be needed to disrupt DR Congo’s shape. Whoever Tuchel picks to play out wide will be important. as will be how he plays Bellingham.

Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke have shown glimpses of promise, but England need more than that. Anthony Gordon has been disappointing, while Bukayo Saka doesn’t seem fit. The runs of the fullbacks could be crucial to get in behind, using overlapping runs will allow for space for others to take advantage of.

Tuchel played a midfield three of Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson against Panama; however, expect Declan Rice to make a return this evening. Bellingham playing deeper was better for the team and Tuchel needs to find that right balance.

Rice and Bellingham can play either side of Anderson, allowing Harry Kane to drop back to receive the ball and giving the centre-backs more to think about. That’s where the wide players can capitalise.

DR Congo have a threat of their own in Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa and Real Betis striker Cedric Bakambu. If England do not take their chances, the speed that their opponents can break at will give these two opportunities to punish.

Prediction

England can’t make the same mistakes as they did against Ghana. They have to play the ball quicker. Take more risks. Playing slow and predictable will only give DR Congo confidence.

Marcus Rashford is one to watch in this match, with his ability to come inside. The width of fullbacks and link up with Jude Bellingham will give Rashford the platform to make a difference.

When you also have a striker like Harry Kane up front, creating a few chances may be all you need. No one is in better form than the Bayern forward, so DR Congo can not switch off.

England will dominate the ball but they need to be more direct at goal rather than passive. Get an early goal and they could score a few but don’t and the nerves will kick in.

England will improve tonight. They have to. Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford on the scoresheet in a 3-0 win for the Three Lions. Comfortable? By the score line, it seems so. Hard work will be needed for this one. DR Congo will be hard to break down. Quality will come through.